International Leadership University (ILU) is a premier higher education institution located in Nairobi, Kenya. Established with the goal of providing quality education, ILU focuses on empowering students with leadership skills, academic knowledge, and social consciousness. With its roots in Theology and Christian ministry, ILU offers a wide range of programs in various disciplines, including Leadership, Education, and Social Sciences.
History of International Leadership University
ILU traces its origins to the Nairobi International School of Theology (NIST), founded in 1981 by Campus Crusade for Christ International, now known as Life Ministry Kenya. Initially, NIST offered graduate-level theological education, and its first class graduated in 1983. Over the years, NIST evolved into the International Leadership University, expanding its academic offerings beyond Theology into Leadership, Social Sciences, and Education.
Academic Schools and Programs at ILU
ILU operates three main schools, each offering a variety of undergraduate, graduate, diploma, and certificate programs:
- School of Theology and Christian Ministry
- Bachelor of Theology
- Diploma in Missions
- Diploma in Children’s Ministry
- Master of Divinity
- Master of Arts in Biblical & Theological Studies
- PhD in Theology
- Certificate in Children’s Ministry, Missions, and Theology
- School of Leadership and Governance
- PhD in Leadership
- Master of Arts in Leadership Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Leadership & Management
- Diploma in Leadership
- Diploma in Servant Leadership
- Certificate in Leadership
- School of Education and Social Sciences
- Master of Arts in Counselling Studies
- Bachelor of Arts in Counselling Psychology
- Diploma in Counselling
- Diploma in Education Arts
- Certificate in Counselling
ILU’s diverse academic offerings are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in various sectors, including the theological and public service sectors, education, governance, and social development.
ILU Fees Structure
ILU offers affordable fees for its students across different programs. The fees for various courses are as follows:
- Bachelor’s Degree: Ksh 137,600 per year
- First Semester: Ksh 70,300
- Second Semester: Ksh 67,300
- Diploma Programs: Ksh 86,100 per year
- Certificate Programs: Ksh 70,100 per year
- Master’s Programs: Ksh 218,400 per year
- PhD in Leadership: Ksh 1.2 million
- Theology Studies (PhD): Ksh 1.3 million
ILU offers affordable and flexible payment options for students to manage their tuition fees. Additionally, scholarships and financial aid programs may be available for eligible students.
ILU Campuses and Locations
The main campus of International Leadership University is located in Nairobi, Kenya, specifically on Mtito Andei Road, Kilimani. ILU also operates various campuses across Africa under its broader network, including in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and Burundi. These campuses are affiliated with prominent institutions such as the African Centre for Theological Studies (ACTS) in Nigeria and the Africa Leadership and Management Academy (ALMA) in Ghana and Zimbabwe.
Admissions Requirements
To apply for any program at ILU, students must meet the minimum entry requirements for their chosen course. These typically include:
- KCSE with a minimum grade of C+ for degree programs
- Diploma or Certificate qualifications for those seeking to pursue advanced diplomas or certificates
- Undergraduate applicants must have completed their secondary education or equivalent
- Postgraduate applicants must hold a relevant undergraduate degree and meet additional criteria specified for each program
International students are also welcomed at ILU, and their application process may vary slightly depending on the country of origin.
Notable Alumni
ILU has produced several notable alumni who are making significant contributions in leadership, education, social work, and theology across the continent. These include ministers, educators, and social entrepreneurs, all of whom embody the institution’s core values of excellence, ethics, and collaboration.
Contact Information
For more information about courses, admissions, or any other inquiries, you can contact International Leadership University through the following details:
- Phone: +254 717 574 489 / +254 770 216 410
- Email: [email protected]
- Postal Address: P.O. Box 17760-00100, Nairobi, Kenya
- Website: www.ilu.ac.ke
Conclusion
International Leadership University (ILU) stands as a leading institution in Kenya and Africa, offering a wide range of programs that focus on leadership, education, theology, and social sciences. With its affordable fees, innovative curriculum, and commitment to developing transformational leaders, ILU continues to provide a world-class education that prepares students to make a difference in their communities and the world.









